Abstract: D1.00034 : Characterization of a Spontaneous Parametric Downconversion Source for Use in Single Photon Tests of Quantum Mechanics

Authors:

Preston Alexander(Francis Marion University)

Jackson McDonld(Francis Marion University)

Jason Harrington(Francis Marion University)

R. Seth Smith(Francis Marion University)

During the past year, a quantum optics laboratory was constructed and tested
at Francis Marion University. A spontaneous parametric downconversion source
was used to create pairs of correlated photons for use in single photon
tests of quantum mechanics. Photons from a spontaneous parametric
downconversion source were detected with single photon counting modules that
were purchased through the Advanced Laboratory Physics Association (ALPHA).
The effect of pump polarization on the output intensity was studied.
Coincidences between pairs of correlated photons were counted and plotted as
a function of the angle between the single photon detectors, in order to
perform a test of Conservation of Momentum. The laboratory will be used to
perform single photon tests of quantum mechanics, including the Grangier
experiment, single photon interference, quantum state measurement, and tests
of local realism.

To cite this abstract, use the following reference: http://meetings.aps.org/link/BAPS.2014.APR.D1.34